What is BPPV – Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo?
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common causes of vertigo. BPPV creates a sudden false sensation of motion or spinning inside your head. These sensations can vary from mild to intense dizziness and are usually triggered by changes in your head’s positioning.
BPPV is the number one cause of dizziness in patients over 60 years old. It can be extremely bothersome and dangerous, especially when it increases the chance or risk for falls.
Symptoms of BPPV
- Short 10-15 second sensations of vertigo or dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sudden loss of balance
- Frequent falls
- Hearing loss
What Causes BPPV?
- A minor or severe blow to the head
- Disorders that damage the inner ear
- Damage that can occur during ear surgery
- Long periods positioned on your back
- Migraines
- Idiopathic or unknown causes
With BPPV, small crystals from the utricle of the inner ear collect in the semi-circular canals of the inner ear. There are three semi-circular canals of the inner ear, and where the crystals have collected will determine your treatment.
Physical Therapy & Treatment for BPPV
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is a specialized type of physical therapy treatment that focuses on improving and restoring balance. Using adaptation, habituation, and substitution exercises our AIB-VR certified therapists can help restore balance and help you manage your symptoms in as little as 2 therapy visits.
The treatment for BPPV is specific to which semi-circular canal of the inner ear is affected. Once identified, the Epley Maneuver, also referred to as a specific type of “canalith-repositioning maneuver” (CRM) is performed. Our physical therapists are AIB-VR certified and will provide you with vestibular rehabilitation exercises so you can rise to your full potential and return to independence.
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